KINGSTON – The Sacred Heart School will open a newly renovated observatory this summer as part of the school’s science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics, or STEAM initiative.

The observatory, which was built in 1999, had been offline for a few years. Due to a generous donation, the school was able to install a new telescope that will be connected to a monitor in the classroom below, allowing the instructor on the observation deck to interact with a classroom below.

“It’s a great structure, and a wonderful addition to our campus,” said Sue Giovanetti, Director of Advancement at Sacred Heart. “Our plan is to have a fully engaged class, and this technology will allow students to remain involved during science and astronomy lessons.”

The renovated Kohout-Dingley Observatory will be dedicated in memory of former teacher Nivard Kohut, and alumnus Ted Dingley, who designed the original facility in 1999 while in architectural school. It will be available for students K-12 at the beginning of the 2014-15 school year, and the school also hopes to host community events there.

Giovanetti said the facility will help revive the school’s astronomy club and spice up the curriculum as part of an ongoing initiative to improve the math and science departments.

“As we take a look at our science and engineering offerings, we see upgrading the observatory as a key component in elevating the opportunities for the students,” she said. “The STEAM initiative is our effort to create a strong curriculum that prepares students for advanced courses in college, as well as 21st century careers.”

Sacred Heart will also renovate the science wing this summer as they renovate and create new physics and biology labs.

“When the students come back in the fall, there’s going to be a whole new look to the school. It’s going to be a great center for innovation,” Giovanetti said.